The influenza vaccine is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and over. It not only protects you, but also helps protect those around you.

It is free under the National Immunisation Program for people most at risk, including:

• children 6 months to less than 5 years
• pregnant women
• people aged 65 and over
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
• people with certain medical conditions:
• cardiac disease such as heart failure, coronary artery disease
• chronic respiratory condition such as bronchiectasis, COPD, chronic emphysema, severe asthma, cystic fibrosis
• immunocompromising condition such as HIV infection, malignancy, immunocompromise due to disease or treatment, solid organ transplant
• haematological disorder such as sickle cell disease or other haemoglobinopathies
• chronic metabolic disorder such as diabetes, vitamin/vofactor disorders
• chronic kidney disease - chronic renal impairment
• chronic neurological condition such as hereditary and degenerative CNS diseases, seizure disorders, spinal cord injuries, neuromuscular disorders
• long-term aspirin therapy in children aged 5 to 10 years - these children are at increased risk of Reye's syndrome following influenza infection

Please speak to our pharmacists to see if you are eligible for a free flu vaccine.

We've answered some of the common questions about the flu and flu vaccines below. Our pharmacists are always available to answer any questions you may have.

What is the flu?

Influenza, or the flu, is a common viral infection that affects people of all ages. It is highly contagious, passed between people by the respiratory droplets of an infected person, especially by sneezing or coughing. You can also be infected by touching an object or surface which has been contaminated by infected droplets.

Flu symptoms can include fever, chills, body aches, runny nose, cough, a sore throat and tiredness. Symptoms generally last between two to seven days. 

While it may be a mild disease for some, the flu can cause serious complications and illness, especially in babies, young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with underlying medical conditions. It can even lead to hospitalisation or death.

An annual vaccination, administered by a health professional, is the safest and most effective way to protect yourself and your family from the flu.

Who is recommended to receive a 2026 flu vaccination?

The flu vaccine is recommended for all people aged 6 months and older.

It is even more important that people who are at high risk of complications, such as pregnant people, people over 65 years of age, people with chronic medical conditions and Indigenous and Torres Strait Islanders, receive the flu vaccine every year.

Who is eligible for a free 2026 flu vaccination?

The Australian Government funds a free flu vaccine under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for the following groups at higher risk of complications from influenza:

• people aged 65 years and older (a specific vaccine designed to produce a higher immune response is available for this group)
• pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
• people with medical conditions putting them at increased risk of severe influenza and its complications (see above)
• babies and children aged 6 months to less than 5 years

What if I am not eligible for a free 2026 flu vaccine?

If you are not eligible for a flu vaccine, you can still be vaccinated at Berwick Pharmacy at a cost of $25 per person. Note that our trained pharmacists can vaccinate anyone aged from 5 years old and up.

How do I book my 2026 flu vaccine?

You can book your 2026 flu vaccine online now via our Bookings page by CLICKING HERE.

Appointments for flu vaccines are preferred, but walk-ins are available, including in the evenings, on weekends, and on public holidays. Flu vaccines are subject to the availability of the appropriate vaccine and a trained pharmacist.

What about COVID vaccines?

COVID-19 vaccines and boosters are available free of charge for everyone.

It is safe to receive your flu vaccine on the same day as your COVID-19 vaccine.

We are now offering the 2026 flu vaccines at Berwick Pharmacy.

Flu vaccines are $25 per person, or government-subsidised flu vaccines are free of charge for those eligible (see below).

Book online, or walk-ins available, subject to the availability of a trained pharmacist and supplies of the appropriate vaccine. We will also be doing flu vaccines in the evenings, on weekends, and on public holidays.